At Paws, our cats have their own living space that we refer to as the “Cat Lounge”. The Cat Lounge features a castle, a running wheel, a myriad of toys and pillows to engage and lounge on, bird videos on TV, and many shelves and platforms. There's also a “Staff and Cats Only” area, so if a cat is really needing their own space they can retreat to that area and be out of site of humans all together. Our customers have the option of a quick 30 minute visit with the cats, along with a fantastic drink, or they can stay an hour or longer, engage with the cats, play video games on Wednesday evenings, enjoy cat themed board games or even colour one of the many colouring books we have. We've even witnessed a few cat naps in the lounge.
After 19 months, I've heard my fair share of feedback about the value that Paws brings to the area. I've witnessed new friendships and relationships begin, after having their first dates at Paws. I've seen many tears shed from those who have recently, or not recently, lost their kitties, and a visit to Paws was their way of dipping their toe into the possibility of opening their heart to a new kitty friend. I, myself, have given many a hug and tissue to someone sharing their cat stories with me. I've seen people come in, not intending to adopt a cat, but one of the lounge cats just connects with that person and doesn't leave them alone until their in a carrier, going home with that person. We've seen adopters start social media accounts for their cats, to help stay connected with people who met their cat and appreciated their cat while they were at our facility.
In a world of increasing frenzy, schedules getting busier, and mental health crisis reaching epidemic proportions, people are looking for ways to decompress, destress and connect with others, or with a cat. You, dear reader, come in, choose the length of your visit, pick your drink and enjoy some no-strings-attached kitty lovin', and when you leave, know that we'll take care of the food bills and stinky litter boxes, which are undetectable to customers 99% of the time.
Nicole Niska,
Owner, Paws the Cat Cafe
Diploma in Feline Behaviour and Psychology